Think about how you dress. The perfect scarf, belt, shoes, or jewelry can transform the same outfit from casual to elegant, conservative to trendy, or frumpy to fun. The same can be said of the “extra” elements we add to the décor of our homes.
We can be content to live in “straight off the mannequin ” rooms……………….this goes with this, that goes with that…the colors in that picture match the couch, etc., but wouldn’t it be more interesting to live in space with a little personality…more specifically your personality?
Personal touches can be anything from private collections, to special photographs and artwork, to keepsakes from memorable trips, to flea market finds that catch your eye and bring a bit of whimsy or interest to a grouping.
A lady I worked with just loved a small side table that belonged to her father, but worried that it wouldn’t blend with her newly decorated home and thought she might need to have it refinished in order to make the grade. But once we talked about how the imperfections now showing after so many years of use actually gave the piece its personality, and then realized that its history is exactly why she liked it in the first place, she made the decision to leave it just as it is. It works perfectly as an eclectic addition to her décor, as did a cherished pine hope chest salvaged from the basement……she added a bench pillow, placed framed family photographs above it, and it is a well loved and perfect addition to her cottage look bedroom.
You can also be creative in the use of objects….that potting table might make a great desk or a bar for outdoor entertaining….those carvings or rocks could be used as bookends, that antique trunk or chest may be the perfect coffee table.
The point is…..use what you love and you’ll love where you live….flawless can be a bit
boring..create your own perfection.
